Tea Shop License Cost in Dubai

A sip of karak while enjoying views of stunning skyline of Dubai, who would not like it? In Dubai, the culture of having tea, coffee and beverages with nears and dears is on the rise. If you have decided to start a café or tea shop business, then we congratulate you as it is a great idea. In this guide we will guide you on tea shop license cost in Dubai and the process to acquire one. 

To start a tea shop in Dubai, you need to get the right business license, a food license along with additional permits. Read the guide to understand the setup process, license cost and some expert tips that will help you launch a successful tea shop in Dubai! 

What is tea shop license in Dubai? 

A tea shop license in Dubai, also referred to as a cafeteria license, is an official authorization through which you can legally operate a business of light snacks and beverages in the city.  

Imagine running a matcha tea shop or a traditional Arabic tea house in Dubai, then in that case you will first need to grab a tea shop license. Holding license confirms that you have the skills, knowledge and sources to serve beverages and food safely to customers. 

Key points related to tea shop license in UAE: 

• License official name: Cafeteria license
• Type of license: Professional license
• Activity group: Restaurants and coffee shops

Who issues a tea shop license in Dubai? 

• Mainland: Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED).
• Free zone: Issued by the respective free zone authority.

However, when choosing this business, you must always remember that health safety is taken very seriously in Dubai. Therefore, you must adhere to the food safety regulations in place and also obtain the necessary permits from the Food and Safety Department. 

Did you know?  Revenue in tea market of UAE is expected to reach US $4.1 million in 2025!

What is the tea shop license cost in Dubai? 

The tea shop license cost in Dubai starts from AED 12,500* (license fees only). 

However, you must know that there are lot of factors that decide the final price of your business license. To get an exact price quotation, we recommend getting in touch with our business setup experts. 

Cost elements of Dubai tea shop license package 

There are many elements that make up the total cost of a tea shop license in Dubai. Here is a breakdown: 

Item	Cost*  (subject to variation*)
Trade license (restaurant/cafeteria license)	AED 12,500
Trade name reservation	AED 735
Initial approval fees	AED 235
Food license from the department of food and safety	AED 300
NOC from civil defence department	AED 1,000
Signage permit	AED 1,000
Ejari registration (lease agreement)	AED 280
Visa charges	AED 3,000
Emirates ID charges	AED 400
Medical tests fees	AED 400
Total estimated tea shop license cost in Dubai*	AED 19,850*

Factors affecting cost of tea shop setup in Dubai 

There are several factors that can influence the overall cost of setting up a tea shop in Dubai. Some of the key ones include: 

1. License and permits:  

There will be tea shop license cost in Dubai, including charges for food license, and other relevant permits necessary for legal operations.  

2. Shop location:  

The tea shop cost also depends on whether the business is being established in the mainland or a free zone. Free zones may offer more affordable license packages in comparison to the mainland. 

3. Type of facility:  

The café space cost depends on whether you have rented a space or purchased it. You will also have to spend on the interior designing, equipment purchase, and furnishing. Such costs will be high if you aim to open a premium tea café. 

4. Number of employees:  

A tea shop typically requires baristas, waiters, cleaning staff, cashier, and supervisor. If you require more employees in your tea shop, then there will be more staffing expenses. In addition to that, for foreign employees, you will have to get the work visa, labour cards, and all of this comes with its own charges. 

5. Number of visas required:  

More visa requirements mean more expenditure, and it thus increases your overall business setup cost in Dubai. First, you will need a business visa for yourself and your staff. Besides that, you may like to get visas for your family too. Each visa involves application, medical tests, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees. 

6. Trade name reservation fees:  

In Dubai, like any other nation, you need to get your business name formally registered with the authorities, and doing so includes charges. The fees depend on the uniqueness of the name, language (such as English vs. Arabic), etc. 

7. Professional services:  

It is always better to seek help from legal advisors or business setup consultants for ensuring a lawful and faster business launch. If you do so, there may be some service charges that you will have to pay.  

At Dubiz Business Setup, we especially keep the service charges minimal to deliver you the most value for your money. 

8. License renewals:  

Your trade license and permits have their own validity period after which they need to be renewed (typically 1 year). You must pay for renewal fees and administrative costs in time to facilitate the renewal. 

How to start a tea shop in Dubai? 

The process you need to follow for tea shop license in Dubai is as follows: 

Step 1 – Understand your business scope 

Every business starts with the right planning. Likewise, while starting a tea shop business in Dubai, you must do proper market research.  

It will help you understand what people are demanding in beverages and snacks, who the major competitors are, which locations have more footfall, tea shop license cost in Dubai to expect, etc. Based on that, you can decide your business operations and have clarity about your goals. 

Step 2 – Decide between mainland and free zone 

You can start your tea shop either on the mainland or in a free zone. Each of these has its own features, regulatory framework, and licensing authority.  

In the mainland, you will be dealing more with DED. In the free zone, the respective zone authority will be issuing your license. Depending on the nature of your business, your budget and your preferences, you must make a choice. 

Step 3 – Reserve a trade name 

Next, register a nice and catchy name for your tea shop with the DED/free zone authority. Along with being attractive, the name must also be lawful.  

For example, it should not contain any morally or religiously offensive terms, it should not include the name of any UAE government body, and it should not already be taken. 

Step 4 – Obtain initial approval 

Getting initial approval for the tea shop is very important as it enables you to move forward with the business setup process. The NOC can be obtained from either DED (for mainland) or the respective free zone authority. 

Step 5 – Finalize a space for cafe 

People visit tea shops not only to quench their thirst but also to create memories with their friends and family. That is why ambience and physical layout of the tea café have a huge impact on customer experience and comfort. Investing in furniture, lighting, and equipment will be beneficial. 

You can choose a rented space or, if your budget allows, you can purchase as well. For rented spaces, the lease contract must be legally prepared and registered. 

Step 6 – Get a food permit from food and safety department

We are talking about tea and snacks, and it is impossible not to talk about Dubai’s Food and Safety Department. There are strict regulations for food businesses in Dubai, and to operate, such businesses must get certification from the department. 

There are usually inspections of the premises, methods, equipment, storage, and other aspects conducted before the permit is granted. 

Step 7 – Get additional permits 

For your space, you will need to get certification from the Civil Defence, which confirms that safety measures and emergency systems are in place. You may also need pest control and signage permits. 

Step 8 – Apply for a trade license 

Now that you have the essential approvals and permits in hand, you can approach the authority, DED or the free zone authority, and request your trade license. The category you will be applying for is a professional license.  

You will need to fill in the license application form and submit it along with the required paperwork and fees. Once request is approved, your license will be issued to you. 

Documents needed for tea shop license application 

The following documents are needed for getting tea shop license in Dubai: 

• Completed license application form
• Passport copy of business owner/s
• Visa and Emirates ID copy of owner/s, if applicable
• Trade name registration certificate
• Initial approval certificate
• Lease agreement for premises
• Memorandum of Association
• Certificate from Dubai Food and Safety authority
• Civil defence approval
• Signage approval

The above list is not exhaustive and can include more documents. Consult Dubiz Business Setup for more details. 

Inspections for tea shop license approval 

Getting a tea shop license and permits in Dubai can be a bit tricky in a sense that you need to pass certain inspections. The inspection is conducted typically by the Food and Safety Department and Dubai Civil Defense. For example, the authorities will examine: 

• Floor plan and layout of premises.
• Ventilation and spacing for safe movement.
• Placement and condition of equipment.
• Safety and hygiene measures in place.
• The methods and processes being used.
• Availability of restrooms and basic facilities.
• Storage conditions for food and beverages.

They overall check the health, safety and fire standards before you can get your license legally for operating. For latest regulations regarding the inspection, please check the official website of concerned authorities. 

What are the benefits of getting tea shop license in UAE? 

A tea shop license in UAE offers many benefits including: 

• Legal operation: Operate as per the laws and avoid penalties.
• 100% ownership: No need of local sponsor especially in freezones.
• Vibrant market: Diverse and growing demand from locals as well as tourists.
• Low taxes: Benefit from huge tax savings on profits.
• Visa eligibility: Get visa for yourself and your staff.
• Supportive government: Save time through easy and fast licensing processes.
• Flexible business types: Choose either dine-ins, takeaways, delivery or kiosks, as per budget.

How to make tea shop successful in Dubai? 

Here are some tips that will ensure the success of your tea shop in Dubai: 

1. Know your costs: 

Being aware of the tea shop license cost in Dubai helps you plan your budget strategically, so you will not face any payment-related problems. This will ensure a smooth setup. 

2. Create a unique experience: 

You may not be the only one to discover the potential of a tea shop in Dubai. However, you can definitely stand out by offering a great experience to customers. This includes the quality and variety on menu, the ambience of your café, and the welcoming attitude of your staff. 

3. Seek expert advice: 

Starting a tea shop in Dubai requires you to get the proper licenses and permits. For that, you will need to approach various government authorities like DED, free zone authorities, Dubai Municipality, and Civil Defence. Experts can ensure accurate documentation and timely application. 

3.Use marketing to the fullest: 

Today’s world is digital, and Dubai is highly advanced, with almost entire population active online. Therefore, use social media channels, create profiles for your café, and share engaging and informative content to attract potential customers. 

4. Maintain quality: 

There should be no compromise on quality when it comes to food and drinks. High quality is remembered by all, and customers return for it. So, use the latest equipment, research your recipes, and maintain cleanliness and service standards at all times. 

Conclusion 

Nothing beats a hot cup of karak. Whether it is a headache, stress, or just the need to relax -one sip can fix it. Opening a tea shop in Dubai is a great idea because of the growing café culture, tax benefits, easy setup process, and a large diverse customer base. 

If you understand the tea shop license cost in Dubai and steps involved, you will feel ready and confident to start your tea shop in Dubai. We hope this blog has answered your major questions. But keep in mind that information related to rules and regulations may change from time to time. 

You can also check out our other blogs, including how to obtain a cafeteria license in Dubai. 

Get your tea shop license with Dubiz 

Dubiz Business Setup is ready to offer you the best guidance on opening a tea shop in Dubai. We will handle your license, permits and approvals, everything you need to operate legally in Dubai. Our experts have years of experience in setting up a wide range of businesses in UAE, including restaurants, cafés and more. 

To get your customized package, please reach out to us on any of the following: 

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485     

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485     

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co     

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